Dragoon Trace Nature Center is coming to life

MOUNT AYR – Ringgold County Conservation Board is excited to see the Dragoon Trace Nature Center coming to life. This project includes unique natural resources and creative funding alliances that will enhance the cultural, recreational and educational assets in southern Iowa.

According to the National Wildlife Federation, “In the last two decades, childhood has moved indoors. The average American child spends less than 30 minutes in outdoor play each day, and more than 7 hours in front of an electronic screen. Childhood obesity rates have more than doubled the last 20 years, United States has become the largest consumer of ADHD medications in the world and pediatric prescriptions for antidepressants have risen precipitously. Our kids are out of shape, tuned out and stressed out, because they’re missing something essential to their health and development: a connection to the natural world.”

Ringgold County is one of the smallest and poorest counties in the state of Iowa. The conservation board works on a very limited budget and even more restricted staff, employing only one full-time staff. The environmental education budget stands at an extremely low $5,000, making large projects unattainable.

This project is being funded by multiple grants, memorials, businesses and personal donations. The conservation board thanks organizations, businesses and individuals who contributed by donating or pledging funding to the nature center project and made it possible.

The nature center project will provide a diverse program selection to the public that will cater to all ages. Live animal displays, habitat displays, outdoor education classrooms and more will make this a must-visit destination in southern Iowa. Along with displays, environmental education programming will be held at the center, making year-round programming possible. This project will improve the quality of life, health and wellness of Iowans.

All contributions $250 or more will be permanently displayed inside the Dragoon Trace Nature Center. The board is still seeking donations. Call the Ringgold County Conservation Board at 641-464-2787 to contribute or for more details.